Applications open for Gauteng Accelerator Programme Innovation Competition

Applications for The Gauteng Accelerator Programme (GAP) Innovation Competition are officially open. Innovators, researchers and entrepreneurs who aim to rebuild the local economy with their innovation are encouraged to apply. 

Up to R3-million in seed money is up for grabs for selected winners along with personalised mentorship, advisory and skills development sessions, infrastructure, funding, and networking opportunities

Advocate Pieter Holl, CEO of the Innovation Hub is encouraging innovators to apply for the renowned local competition.

“We urge all scientists, innovators, researchers and entrepreneurs to enter this once in a lifetime opportunity, no matter their age or background. This is an opportunity to develop ideas, dreams and innovations into reality, something feasible that can make a difference in the lives of other South Africans.”

Facilitated and supported by the Innovation Hub, the competition will run from 15 September and is hosting five main categories. These five categories are; GAP Green, GAP Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), GAP Medical, GAP Biosciences, and the GAP Township (GATE) Competition.

“The categories for the GAP innovation competition were meticulously chosen to give everyone a fair chance at entry. We believe that the South African entrepreneur and scientist can find solutions to our country’s unique problems within these categories and help rebuild South Africa through innovation,” adds Holl.

The competition

According to reports, up to R3-million in seed money is up for grabs for selected winners along with personalised mentorship, advisory and skills development sessions, infrastructure, funding, and networking opportunities.

Applications are currently open but close on 15 September 2021. All entry applications must be completed online here.

The five categories

GAP Green Economy

The GAP Green Economy competition aims to recognise and support innovations that address climate change, conscious use of limited materials by both individuals and enterprises. Qualifying innovations must be past the idea phase and in the following sectors; Water security and management, Waste and sanitation, Energy, Green Buildings & Sustainable mobility. 

The selected winners will qualify for seed funding and an incubation programme with the Climate Innovation Centre in South Africa. The overall winner will receive R180 000, second place will be awarded R120 000 and third prize will secure R100 000. 

GAP ICT

The GAP ICT category of the competition focuses on innovations with the following characteristics; electronics, software, sensors, cybersecurity, network connectivity, Internet of Things, big data, analysis, artificial intelligence, mixed reality and smart mobility.

Qualifying candidates include researchers, entrepreneurs and community-based organisations. The selected innovation for first place will receive R180 000 in prize money, second prize will receive R120 000, third will receive R90 000 and fourth place will be awarded R10 000. 

GAP Medical

The GAP medical category awards innovations that aim to improve healthcare service delivery in hospitals. The category is held in partnership with the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) and Emory University’s Goizueta Business School.

The first prize will receive R300 000, the second prize will be awarded R200 000 and the third prize will receive R100 000. 

GAP Biosciences

Focusing on scientists and entrepreneurs who are developing or have developed innovative solutions in the form of cutting-edge bioscience or life science technologies, this category is held in partnership with the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) and Emory University’s Goizueta Business School.

The winner of the Biosciences competition walks away with R500 000 in seed money, with the second prize being R300 000 and the third prize R200 000.

GATE Township Economy

Township innovations are at the focal point for this category as it recognises and awards startups that have established a mechanism or solution to help grow the township economy. 

The selected winner will secure the opportunity to take part in the Innovation Hub’s township-based innovation centre, eKasiLabs. 

first prize will be awarded R300 000, second prize R200 000, third prize R100 000 and fourth prize R50 000.

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Featured image: Lagos Techie via Unsplash